Issue link: https://cp.revolio.com/i/1498414
WheelsOfGrace.com | Volume 14 Issue 3 | 19 AND IN-PERSON! "You want to be as visible as possible," Lambert said. "Keep your lights on, wear bright colors, even during the daytime, and always position yourself in a lane where drivers can see you. Follow all the traffic laws and always use your turn signals. It's a good idea to combine hand signals with turn signals when you can to make sure other drivers are clear about your intentions." Like all motor vehicles, those operating motorcycles should never drive when impaired or under the influence of alcohol. According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, 27% of motorcyclists involved in fatal crashes around the United States were under the influence of alcohol. These crashes claimed the lives of 1,436 motorcyclists nationwide. Ways for other motorists to keep motorcyclists safe While personal safety should always be a priority for those driving motorcycles, other drivers should look out for those on bikes while traveling as well. While a motorcycle must follow all the same traffic laws that other drivers follow on the road, having less protection and a smaller size means that other drivers pose a higher risk to motorcyclists when distracted driving is occurring on the road. To protect these vulnerable drivers, all motorists should be aware of where these motorcycles are on the road and keep an eye on where the smaller vehicles are at all times. "As a driver, you want to check your mirrors and blind spots for motorcyclists before you enter or leave lanes of traffic and always at intersections," Lambert said. "Most of the multi-vehicle motorcycle crashes occur when an automobile driver simply did not see the motorcyclist." Another way to protect these motorcyclists is for drivers to add space to their following distance, adding a larger gap between the car and the bike. Under no circumstances should a car be next to a motorcycle in a lane or intentionally add pressure to motorcyclists driving on the road. "Always increase your following distance behind motorcycles and provide time to maneuver or stop in an emergency," Lambert said. "That rule applies when you're driving a car or a motorcycle. You never want to share a lane with motorcyclists, they have the same right to lanes as automobiles." While motorcyclists should focus on visibility, it is always good practice for vehicles to do the same when traveling on the roadway. By clearly signaling and giving extra time for motorcyclists to react to those in front of them, drivers can protect these individuals and potentially save lives on the roadway. "You want to signal before changing lanes or merging with traffic," Lambert said. "And even when you do signal, allow enough time to determine a motorcyclist's intention before you move forward." LION and THE LAMB Merchandise Shirts: $25 plus S&H Special Deals on Orders of 25 or More Stickers: $5 each CALL: 307-203-5777 EMAIL: Lionandthelamb144@gmail.com